Chocolate cravings

These are a reality, especially among chocolate lovers who are feeling depressed. Chocolate contains the stimulantsbeta-phenylethylamine (PEA) and theobromine. PEA is an effective mood elevator for some people, but as there're 520 calories in a 100g bar of chocolate, it would be better to use beta-phenylethlamine salt directly, than eat a lot of chocolate. Theobromine is a milder stimulant than caffeine and is also known to stimulate the release of endorphins ('feel-good' chemicals in the brain). See 'Carob'; 'Chocolate'; 'Chocolate and health'; 'Chocolate; Forasteros Production figures (latest available)'.

If you enjoy cooking take a minute to look at ‘Simon Scrutton French Cookery Classes’ on Google – and learn how to make top class bistro-style dishes. Suitable for beginners upwards. Small classes.